SIU SDM White Coat Ceremony Marks Students’ Commitment to Dentistry

October 3, 2016, 11:20 AM

Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine first year students and the inaugural class of the International Advanced Placement Program (IAPP) received the traditional coat of medical professionals, during the School’s 16th annual White Coat Ceremony held Friday, Sept. 30.

The first year cohort of 52 students, and six IAPP students, took the professional oath, and committed to uphold the School’s values of service, respect, integrity, compassion and competence.

“The White Coat Ceremony is an important step in the journey of the dental student as it signifies the formal entrance into the profession,” said Bruce Rotter, DMD, dean of the SIU School of Dental Medicine. “Moreover, it affirms the students’ knowledge and willingness to practice by the dental professional oath. The oath is the dentist’s guide to safe, ethical and compassionate patient care.”

Ken Rawson, DMD, interim associate dean for academic affairs led the ceremony for the class of 2020. He introduced and celebrated multiple faculty, who will play an integral role in the professional preparedness and development of the two cohorts.

“Our students’ past performance demonstrates that our faculty are among the best in the nation in both biomedical and clinical sciences,” Rawson said. “Each year, the dedication of our faculty helps to produce some of the finest dental practitioners in the nation, and I anticipate that this class will also excel in their chosen profession.”

The event’s keynote speaker was Susan Bordenave-Bishop, DMD, president of the Illinois State Dental Society Foundation’s Board of Directors. Bordenave-Bishop also serves as Regent of the International College of Dentists, District 8.

Photo: SIU SDM Class of 2020 and inaugural cohort of the International Advanced Placement Program.